Health Hazard Evaluation Report MHETA 87-295-1867, High Power Energy, Drennen, West Virginia

摘要

In response to a request from the United Mine Workers of America, Local 8531, an evaluation was made of possible heat stress conditions at the High Power Energy's No. 901 strip mine (SIC-1211), Drennen, West Virginia. A total of 94 heat stress measurements was taken in 13 of the 16 rock and coal trucks to determine the wet bulb globe temperature time weighted average (WBGT-TWA) for each truck. The WBGT-TWA ranged from 82.3 to 88.4 degrees F. The metabolic heat from the 13 drivers was estimated to be from 271 to 504 kilocalories/hour. In each of these trucks it was determined that a potentially hazardous heat stress condition did exist. The recommended exposure limit for drivers of such trucks ranges from 77 to 83 degrees F. The measurements were taken at times of the day when it was expected maximum readings would be obtained. The author concludes that during hot, humid weather, truck drivers are exposed to potentially hazardous heat loads. The author recommends that air conditioning be provided in the trucks. Other recommendations include preplacement and periodic medical examinations, use of a heat stress monitor, provision of rest periods, starting the work day earlier, provision of adequate amounts of cool water, use of a buddy system, and training workers to recognize early signs of heat illness.